Geothermal Therapy Association

GTA, is an association of Geothermal Therapy and Non-Thermal Geotherapy Practitioners, Educators, Vendors and Employers, supporting the safe use of stones combined with body work techniques as a method of wellness.

The association was formerly known as Stone Walkers Association, hence the web-address http://www.stonewalkersassociation.com - Their Facebook page can be found at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Geothermal-Therapy-Association/183701173721

Geothermal Therapy includes the use of hot and cold stones in massage and therapeutic work. GTA also include those using non-thermal Geotherapy, such as energy work with stones and crystals.

The mission statement reads:
The Geothermal Therapy Association is dedicated to promoting the highest standards of professional protocol by establishing safe temperature ranges, hygiene and sanitation standards, recognizing specific contraindications, promoting professional ethics and integrity to protect clients worldwide.

Their Goals are:

• GTA seeks to promote stone modalities to the public in the professional venue as a complimentary and holistic approach to wellness.
  
• GTA has established an enrolment process that tests for competency to ensure that all established criteria is being met by all Board Certified members of this association.
  
• GTA will continually educate the general public about proper safety techniques and protocols that must be employed during a treatment session involving temperature and direct body contact with stones, encouraging the client to seek out Board Certified Practitioners.

Those educated in LaStone qualify for GTA membership.

The creating force behind the association is Jenny Ray, a Native American Shaman who also works together with LaStone and offers LaStone workshops along with her own Stone Medicine classes. Her website can be found at: http://www.sacredstonemedicine.com/ and is found on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stone-Medicine-LLC/159197228881

Creative LaStone

Image by cobalt123 via Flickr

Combining the hot stones with massage creates amazing results. LaStone and Massage Créatif compliments each other beautifully and carry the same energy and purposes.

The two therapies can be combined in several ways, depending on the needs and requirements of the client.

One way is to use the hot stones to warm the tissue before the massage commences, simply adding another step to the Massage Créatif. Warming the tissue makes the hands-on work easier for the therapist and allows her to work much deeper after a shorter time of tissue manipulation. Heating the muscles makes them relax, which gives the therapist easier access to the tight knots and tense muscles.

The stones also provide a great massaging tool, which with less effort can go deeply into the muscles and reach the deeper layers. It is gentle on the hands and fingers of the therapist, allowing her to work for a longer time before tiring herself. Using the hot stones feels like a pair of very warm hands massaging your muscles.

If there is a particularly troubled area, then including a cold stone can provide that last touch needed to fully let a muscle release tension and return to normality.

For the Creative Lastone, the number of stones used can vary from 4 to 12, depending on how much deep work is needed. The fewer stones included, the more flowing and uninterrupted the massage will be.

Please note that the Creative LaStone is an extended version of Massage Créatif, adding certain elements from the LaStone therapy and combining the two into a symbiosis. It gives you a taste of what a LaStone treatment feels like, but doesn't replace it in any manner. The energy and flow of the massage is that of the Massage Créatif, enhancing it with the stone advantages and energies.

What is LaStone Therapy

LaStone Therapy is the original hot and cold stone massage. It is a massage and therapy form that includes the use of hot and cold stones, both passively and actively. Some stones are placed to heat and cool muscles, while other stones are used as a massage tool instead of the hands. The stones do a lot of the work, which can give a very deep and profound massage.

The therapy was created by Mary Nelson in 1993 where she started to implement hot and cold stones into her massages and it quickly grew from there as it was shown to be very effective. Not only did the clients experience increased benefits, the therapists did too. Their hands and fingers were spared during massages and work related injuries drastically reduced.

Hot basalt rocks are heated in water, normally to a temperature between 52-55 degrees Celsius. The cold marble stones are normally kept on ice. For more deep tissue and therapeutic work, more extreme temperatures are often used, especially colder stones. Sardonyx can also used as cold stones which can be very beautiful.

LaStone is not a routine or specific way of massaging, but rather an implementation of hot and cold stone routines into any massage given. This makes LaStone a very broad and varied massage form, which can be tailored to any need a client has; therapeutic, sports massage, well-being and relaxation. There's room for a tender, nurturing touch, emotions and energetic work that revives and revitalises you.

A typical 50 minutes Lastone spa routine will include both active and passive work with the stones. First you'll be asked to undress and lie on the table, draped under a towel. You sit up with the sheet and towel around you and the therapist places hot and cold stones which will lie under your back while your legs and arms are massaged. More stones are placed on your stomach and chest, which aids you in relaxing completely.

As you lie there on and under hot and cold stones, your legs are massaged with hot stones, which can work deeply into the muscles. Cold stones can be used as well, which makes the experience invigorating and refreshing. Once the legs are covered again, your arms will get their turn. Again, using the hot to make your muscles relax completely, and the cold stone to draw out the excess heat and energizing you. During a 50 minutes treatment there's not much time for a face massage, which then generally is saved for the 1h20m massage.

When the front side is completed, you're asked to turn around the stones you lay on are removed. A new hot or cold stone is placed under your belly and you're asked to adjust it so it's comfortable. It might sound hard, but is actually very pleasant. You remain draped, only moving the towel aside as the therapist begins to massage your legs and back with hot stones, finishing with a cold stone. Your neck and shoulders also get a treatment before you're covered up again and asked to turn around.

Finishing the massage your face receives a brief cold caress which serves to energize you and freshen you so you don't feel all tired and drowsy after the massage, but instead rather ready to face the day and able to function as normal.

The longer LaStone Therapy includes more targeted and in depth work, as well as massage of the face and neck. For those interested, energy work can be implemented, making it a complete treatment of body and soul.

Clothed massage

Image via Wikipedia

It's easy to get the impression that you need to undress in order to receive a massage. This is not true. It's perfectly possible to receive a good and also therapeutic massage even if you're clothed. The massage techniques used are somewhat different, and the experience will be another compared to a normal unclothed massage.

It is essential though that you wear clothes which are loose and comfortable no matter what position you might find yourself in. It's also preferably that there's only one thin layer of material between you and the therapist. Thick layers of cloth makes it hard for the therapist to feel the muscles and tensions and will also absorb part of the pressure, thereby reducing the effect of the massage.

The techniques used for clothed massage is often pressure and stretching. Petrissage (kneading of the muscles) is another technique possible, as well as tampotement (tapping), grasping and vibration. There are other techniques used within various massage styles and schools. Some typical clothed massages would include Chair/Seated Massage, Thai Massage and Shiatsu.

The most important when doing clothed massage, is to make sure the material of the garments doesn't slide across the skin. The only thing which should be moved is the layer of skin over the muscles, which in most cases will reduce the stroke to only a few centimetres in size. It's the deeper layers which are moved, like grabbing a muscle and lifting it up and releasing it again.

Next time you get the chance, try to massage a co-worker or friend on the shoulders and focus on not sliding the clothes across the skin, but only work on the muscle underneath. Once you master this, your clothed massages will have improved greatly, and it's easy to implement techniques and knowledge from normal massage into your routines.

Clinical massage therapy

Clinical massage therapy focuses on treating the muscles and client as opposed to relaxation and de-stressing. A good knowledge of anatomy is needed to perform clinical massage therapy, as the work is done on the individual muscles and groups. It's important to know where they attach, what their functions are, the pain referrals and how they're located on the body of the client.

A clinical massage therapist will know what muscles she is massaging in order to treat a client. She will know which muscles work together and be able to analyse a client and recommend a treatment plan to treat the issues at hand. It is a much more medical approach to massage, with focus on treating specific problems instead of general relaxation and well-being.

As result, a clinical massage therapy session will often only focus on one area or part of the body, excluding those parts which has no connection to where the problems are located. An ankle pain might treat foot, legs and hips, perhaps even lower back, but most likely there would be no need to treat arms, shoulders and head.

The techniques in clinical massage therapy are much more focused than in general relaxation massage. In Swedish massage (classical massage, relaxation massage), there are a number of basic strokes including petrissage and effleurage. The techniques in clinical massage therapy seldom uses the strokes from Swedish massage, but instead the following:

• Holding. A muscle is held with the hand. This simple touch can make muscles relax and prepare them for deeper work.
  
• Compression. By pressing perpendicular into the tissue against deeper tissue or bone, the muscle is compressed. Pressure is kept until the muscle is felt to relax. Is also used on trigger points. Compression can be applied with fingertips, heel of hand, hole hand or even underarm and elbow. Pressure is maintained until a release is felt.
  
• Pincer Palpation/Compression. Tissue is grasped between thumb and fingers and pressed between them. It's a variant of compression and used the same way.
  
• Stripping or Stripping Massage. Firm pressure is used while gliding over a muscle, usually from one attachment to another and in the direction of the muscle fibres. It's repeated several times until the muscle is felt to relax. Most often the work is done on one muscle at a time, though can be done on groups where the individual muscles can't easily be distinguished.
  
• Cross-Fibre Friction. By gliding fingertips, thumb or elbow back and forth across the muscle fibres a muscle can be made to relax and the tension released. This is most often performed on or near the attachments.
  
• Passive Stretching. Stretching must be done carefully and slowly. A muscle is stretched by moving its attachment points away from each other. A stretch is sustained until a release in the muscle is felt.
  
• Myofacial Release. Is a stretching of the surface layers. Using palms a slow firm stretch is performed until a released is sensed by the hands. Most often used on back, chest and abdomen. This is merely a supplement to clinical massage therapy and is a whole branch of its own.

Combinations of clinical massage therapy and relaxation massages can provide really good results. If there is time, it's highly recommended to have the problem area treated and then spend as much time on a full relaxation massage to bring the rest of the body into a state of release and peace, as well as to prevent new issues from surfacing. This will also help the treated area to recover easier and overall give a better experience for the client.

Trigger points

Trigger point therapy is becoming increasingly popular, and more and more massage therapists incorporate the techniques in their treatments. It is not the same as acupressure, though some trigger points corresponds with acupressure points.

A trigger point is defined as; "A highly irritable localized spot of exquisite tenderness in a nodule in a palpable taut band of (skeletal) muscle." Their sizes vary from tiny lumps to large lumps and can be felt beneath the surface in the muscle fibres. They can be found in all muscles of all ages, even children and babies.

Nobody knows precisely why or how a trigger point forms. It's clear though that stress and strain to a muscle will trigger their formation and prolonged muscular strain can increase their size and number. Those which are just slightly tender can be a forewarning of potential problems building and a good sign that a muscle or muscle group is strained and treatment might soon be needed.

Poor posture, wrong use of muscles and joints, strain and stress to the body can all form trigger points. As with all things, it's important to maintain your body and keep it in good shape. Exercise, strength training, stretching and keeping a proper posture are all steps towards this goal. Active painful trigger points are a sign that your body needs maintenance and care.

The mark of trigger points is the referred pain patterns. The referrals comes from how the muscles and tendons attach and connect to various parts of the the body. The muscle and tendons connect to other areas, sometimes spreading out. Sometimes a muscle attaches to another muscle, sometimes it control a tendon which runs far from it's point of origin. Muscles cross each other in layers and there are clear patterns in how one muscle can affect others even in complete other parts of the body. Sometimes via direct connection, other times because of how the muscles work together.

For instance can a trigger point located in the calf refer pain in the big toe. The calf muscle is strained, which causes the trigger point to form. The referred pain comes as the muscle controls the movement of the big toe. As such, in order to truly understand and use trigger point therapy, it's important to understand anatomy and how the muscles are attached and what their functions are.

Trigger point therapy is in its essence rather simple. A muscle has a trigger point which is pressed until a release happens. The soreness subsides, the nodule loosens and the referred pains disappear. In practicality it takes knowledge and skill to find the primary trigger points, know what causes them to form (for instance poor posture) and understanding how pain in the forehead might be caused by a trigger point in the shoulder.

It's an interesting field to study and certainly bound to become a discipline most massage therapists will integrate in their treatments.

Chair massage vs table massage

Both seated massage and table massage have their advantages and areas where they are more effective and useful than the other. In general a table massage is good for a full body treatment and complete relaxation and de-stressing, allowing the therapist to work through all areas and muscle groups. A seated massage is good for addressing specific conditions related to the back area, arms, shoulders and neck, working in shorter sessions taking less time than a table massage.

	Table massage	Seated massage
Main purposes:	The purpose of table massage is to provide the entire body with a full and in depth relaxation while addressing tensions and eventual problems. It is a good way to de-stress and counter stress related problems.	Seated massage focuses primarily on relaxing tense muscles in the shoulders and back, while providing a brief relaxation and boost of energy to deal with the rest of the day.
Areas treated:	The whole body is treated during a table massage. The therapist has easily access to all muscle groups, and can address the tensions and soreness effectively. A table massage can include foot massage, legs, back, shoulders and neck, scalp, face, chest, arms, hands and stomach. It is even possible to mobilize joints and do stretches, though mostly limited to legs and arms.	With a seated massage it is primarily the back, shoulders, neck and arms which are treated. The seated position allows for easy and effective access to these areas. The scalp can be massaged and if the client turns around, the face can be massaged. Seated massage is not effective for massage of the legs, feet, hips and chest due to the position the client sits in. It is possible, but is recommended for a table massage instead.
Benefits:	The benefits of a table massage includes a full relaxation of the entire body, while all muscle groups can be treated. Table massage is highly de-stressing, and gives you a chance to fully let go and rest body, mind and spirit while the therapist treats you. After the massage there is time to lie on the table and slowly come back, get a drink of water or tea and in some spas a visit to a hammam or a shower is offered to complete the experience.	Chair massages are generally relaxing and refreshing. Since most people have to return to work and activities quickly afterwards, the massage ends on an energizing note, allowing the client to step from the chair with less sore muscles and energy to face the rest of the day. Chair massage effectively addresses the tensions building up in the neck, shoulders and back during a workday. It is also easy to employ stretching techniques which both energizes and treats. A chair massage is a quick way to loosen tensions, counter stress and increase well-being.
Techniques:	Table massages can use a wide number of techniques depending on which method is used during a session. Shared is though that the client usually is naked with or without a drape, that massage oils and other creams are used to make the movements over the skin smooth and comfortable. Long soft strokes, deep kneading, pressure, rubbing and stretching are the techniques most commonly used. During a table massage the therapist can easily work on an entire muscle at once with long deep strokes, or work on isolated spots as she pleases. Due to the horizontal position of the client, it is harder to do deep pressure weight as the therapist only indirectly can use her bodyweight on large muscle groups such as on the back. In return she can easily knead and lift the muscles, relaxing them and work out all the little tensions from many different angles.	Due to the nature of seated massages where the client is fully clothed, several of the techniques used for a table massage can either not be used, or has to be adapted. Kneading and pressure are the two techniques used most, combined with stretching and tapping. Due to the clothing it is not easy to work on an entire muscle at once, The techniques are more aimed at localized specific treatments, such as trigger point releases. Because of the seated position, pressure on especially the back is deep and firm. The therapist can use her full bodyweight to sustain a releasing pressure on the muscles.
Setting:	A treatment room is needed for a table massage. It must be private and undisturbed, warm and comfortable to give the client the best experience and relaxation. In clinics and spas treatment rooms will have decorations, candles and music to further the relaxation, a shower is often at disposal for the client to use after the treatment and there must be privacy for disrobing prior to the massage and relaxation afterwards.	Not much is needed for a seated massage. A peaceful corner in a bustling office is often enough since the client does not have to disrobe and the treatment is often of shorter length and less relaxing. All which is needed is a space large enough for the char and easy manoeuvring around it, as well as being undisturbed by people navigating around the chair. The more quiet the setting is, the deeper relaxation can be achieved by the client.
Location:	A table massage usually takes place in a clinic, spa or at the client's location.	Chair massages are very flexible in regards to locations and can be done practically everywhere.
Preparation:	There are several preparations needed for a table massage. The room must be warm and ready for the session, sheets and towels on the table, massage oils readily available and the client needs to disrobe and get onto the table before the session can start. Often the client needs to travel to get to the clinic or spa where the massage takes place, making it into a bigger undertaking.	Hardly any preparation is needed for a chair massage. Once the therapist arrives at the location, she or he will only need a few minutes to find the allocated spot, unfold the chair and wipe it before the client can take seat and the treatment begin. In situations where the client comes to the therapist in an airport, mall or clinic, all which is needed is for the client to remove jacket and big pull overs and then settle in the char and the massage begins.
Time:	A table massage typically lasts one to one and a half hours, though some offer shorter session specifically aimed at one area of the body. For a full body massage one hour is minimum and one and a half ideal.	A chair massage can last from 10 minutes to 40 minutes, where the typical length is 15-20 minutes. This allows the therapist to effectively address the issues in the back area. Longer sessions will include more throughout treatment, especially of the arms and hands, employ advanced stretching of the muscles and possibly a scalp massage.
Price:	The price of a full body table massage reflects the time the session lasts as well as the setting in which it takes place. Prices vary from therapist to therapist, as well as from area to area (or country). In the Paris area the prices currently range between 70€ and 120€ for one hour massage.	Seated massages are usually inexpensive. Many set their prices on a per minute charge and can in some instances be half the price per minute than a table massage would be. It is not unusual to find chair massages for 1€ per minute, though typically a 15 minutes chair massage will range between 15€ and 25€ in Paris.

One massage form is not better than another, but simply targeted differently. Some people will prefer one type over the other. Those unused to receiving massages might find the seated massage more appealing since there is no requirement of disrobing and the stimulation is of shorter duration.

Seated massages are ideal for people who can't take the time for a table massage, or who wants relief from desk related work. A table massage is very relaxing and a good way to treat yourself emotionally and physically. It all comes down to personal tastes and needs.

Other related articles:
What is Massage Créatif, More about Massage Créatif, What to expect from a Massage Créatif, Why get Massages, Seated Chair Massage, Pain from Computer and Desk, and Why get Chair Massages.

Why get chair massages?

Chair massage is an efficient massage technique to deal with the problems and tensions arising during the course of a day. It effectively addresses the strains and aches which build up in the shoulders, neck and back from extensive work in front of the computer. Seated massage is a sound alternative to the more traditional table massage as the position effectively allows the therapist to work on the troubled areas.

Seated massage is especially suitable for dealing with pains, tensions and returning mobility to the joins and muscles. A session does not only massage the muscles and make them relax, but also releases trigger points and can employ stretches to aid the body back into a natural alignment.

There are several major conditions that are treatable by a seated massage:

Lumbar area (lower back):

• Low back pain, tension, sprains and strains.
• Muscles spasm related to disc injuries, lifting accidents, falls and other trauma.
• Acute onset of low back pain.
• Lack of flexibility.

Thoracic area (upper back):

• Pain between the shoulders.
• Lack of range of motion of the scapula.
• Postural distortion.
• Pain on deep breath.

Shoulder area:

• Rotator cuff injuries.
• Stiffness and lack of flexibility.
• Impingement.
• Join pain.
• Strains and sprains, frozen shoulder, aches and pains in the shoulder.

Upper extremity (arms and hands):

• Carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Tennis and golfers elbow.
• Tension, pain, strains, sprains, tingling and numbness.
• Stiffness and lack of flexibility.
• Postural distortions.

Cervical (neck)

• Whiplash.
• Headaches.
• Stiffness and lack of flexibility.
• Athletic injuries and postural distortion.

Not only is seated massage effective in treating a long range of problems, but it is often more practical and convenient for the clients. A chair massage can take place in practically any location, offices, at home, at a clinic, in the park, at the airport, in the mall. It does not take much room and as the client is clothed privacy is not an issue. All that's needed is a quiet corner where there is room for the massage chair and therapist to move freely and no one is bumping into the chair as they pass by.

The sessions are shorter than with a table massage, making it easier to fit an appointment into a busy schedule. They can range from 10 minutes to 40 minutes, the most common being 15-20 minutes. This makes it easier to plan and find a free slot in a busy schedule.

Generally the price is lower than a table massage, both due to the shorter time and the easier set-up. No oils or creams are used during a seated massage, no sheets and towels which need to be washed afterwards, which is another reason for a lower price. Depending on where you are prices for a seated massage typically lie on $1 per minute (in the US), or 1€ per minute (in Europe).

The shorter time and lower cost allows clients to book several sessions in a shorter interval than they would with a table massage, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the massage. A frequent series of shorter massages is more effective than one long massage once in a rare while. This can make seated massage a better therapeutic massage form than traditional table massage when dealing with the above mentioned.

Source and further reading: Therapeutic Chair Massage (Lww Massage Therapy & Bodywork Educational)

Seated massage (chair massage)

Chair massage is a quick and energizing massage form that is performed while the client is fully clothed. The clients sits on a chair specially designed for comfort and access to the body. Pressure and massage techniques are used to work out the knots and tension which are located in the body. In particular the shoulder, neck and back area are easily accessible for treatment during a seated massage.

A massage typically lasts 15 minutes, which is no more than a coffee break. It can be performed in any location; from your living room, to the office, parks and malls, the garden, beaches. With or without people and distractions around you. It is an ideal massage form for those too busy for a full massage, or as a break and nice treatment while at work or meeting up with friends.

Longer massages can easily be given with a seated massage, it all depends on the time and needs of the client. Half an hour is not uncommon for a massage and they can last up to 1½ hours. During the longer massages not only the back, neck and shoulder area are treated, but also arms, hands, scalp, thighs and calves. Stretches are employed to aid the massage and the client will participate actively in the treatment. The chest and stomach can also be massaged and facials are a given.

The massage chair can be used in many ways and it is a very flexible tool. The chair itself is compact and can easily be set up. Many chairs weigh very little, which makes them ideal for transportation and visiting the client at their location. Once set up they don't take much space and almost any home and office can find a corner with room enough for the massage. Often an unoccupied office or meeting room is used. The only preparation needed is to move a few chairs aside.

Since the client is fully clothed there is no need for a strict privacy, nor a room that is specially heated. The goal of the massage is often therapeutic. Knots and sore muscles are treated, as opposed to the table massage, where the aim is to make the client fully relax and completely let go while treating muscular tensions. This also eliminates the need for an undisturbed room. Instead a room a bit out of the way, a quiet corner in the house or office, or even a peaceful spot in the park can be used for the massage.

The techniques used in a chair massage are very similar to those used on the massage table and they can easily be adapted to suit the seated massage. There are some distinct differences. The most notable difference is the lack of oils or creams during the massage. The hands of the massage therapist presses and pushes the muscles, lifts them and tap them. Long soft strokes over the skin are usually not employed due to clothing.

Chair massage is ideal for back, neck and shoulder problems as well as arm, wrist and hands. People working in offices, mothers carrying infants and others with particular strain to those areas of the body can benefit greatly from a seated massage.

Oriental Massage

Oriental massage takes its inspiration from the Hammams found in Morocco and the other North African countries. The objective of the massage is to stimulate the blood circulation and relax the muscles in depth. This style of massage is often found in the Hammams and will typically last 20 to 30 minutes.

The massage is very energetic and profound, urging the body and spirit to let go. This massage is in particular recommended to relax the mind and spirit of hyperactive and overworked people, as well as people who feel burnt out and are in need of an energy burst.

From the beginning the energy of the massage is notable. The music and scents brings associations with the mystery of the North African world. The gestures are quick and energized and there is a rhythm and flow in how the massage is performed that correspondents with the the spirit of ancient oriental practices.

Both hands and forearms are used during the massage, tapping of feet and muscles as well as stretches that affects the entire body. There are quick light strokes to apply the massage oil as well as in depth work on the body.

By the end of the massage you feel energized and relaxed, the blood flowing quicker through the veins and tensions gone. It is a very rejuvenating massage style.

Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone Massage is becoming an increasingly popular massage form, which more and more spas and beauty salons offer. In its essence it is a massage therapy that uses heated basalt stones as a means to warm the muscles and massaging them. It is an ancient therapy form which was made popular when the massage therapist Mary Nelson introduced a massage technique called "La Stone Therapy".

Hot Stone Massage is not just a gliding of stones around on the body, but a precise therapy form which aims at connecting mind, body and soul into one unit. The hot stones are precisely placed upon the body to heat and relax the muscles. The warm stones are also used as a tool to massage the muscles in depth, like a normal massage therapy would.

The heat of the stones effectively helps the muscles relax, and the technique is gentle on the massage therapist's joints, which allows for longer and deeper massages. The massage style is based in old shamanistic traditions, and like the lomi lomi massage, it can become a whole ritual in itself, with energy work, meditation and self exploration.

La Stone Therapy was created by combining the old native healing method with modern knowledge and massage therapy, and is now approved by the US health authorities as a valid massage therapy along side Swedish Massage, Sports Massage and so on.

Most Hot Stone Massage you'll find in France will only employ heated basalt stones. The La Stone Therapy also uses cooled stones and the combination of heat and cold adds a whole new dimension to the treatment. It becomes an art performance.

Further reading:
http://hotstone.charlia.com/ - a quick guide
http://lastonetherapy.com/ - the official La Stone Therapy site

What to expect from a Massage Créatif

A Massage Créatif is a full body massage, which combines soft strokes with deep massage, as well as stimulates pressure points, employ stretching and massage of the hands, feet and head. The entire body will be massaged during the hour or one and a half hour a massage lasts.

You will come out from the massage feeling relaxed and calm. Tensions have been eased, worries lessened. You will feel lighter, as if a weight has been taken from your shoulders. Your skin will feel soft and be nourished by the oil used for the massage and your system will be busy flushing out the toxins released by the treatment.

First you will be welcomed to a warm room with candles lit and nice scents. A sheet covers the massage table and towels are arranged for your comfort. I will leave the room while you undress and lay yourself on the table. You can be keep your underwear on or be nude as you are most comfortable with. I will wash my hands and mentally prepare myself for the massage. As I enter the room I will inquire if there is anything I need to know about your massage or if you have any pains and problems I must be aware of.

Once you lie comfortably on the table with your face down, I will turn on the music and ask you to just relax and let go for the next hour (or one and a half). I will warm my hands and place them upon your feet with a firm assuring pressure. Then your ankles, calves, thighs, buttocks, back, shoulders, arms and hands. These are slow deliberate firm placements upon your body to build a connection between us and to prepare you for the massage. I will by this first contact get the first hints and clues as to where your body need treatment and care.

Next I will apply the massage oil to my hands. It is fragrant and contains essential oils which will enhance your massage. Perhaps lavender for physical and mental relaxation, perhaps ylang ylang for trust, perhaps geranium for balance and so on. Each oil has special properties and I will chose one of my blends which I sense will benefit you.

A quick brush from heels to back and the oil is applied upon the back with hands and forearms. You would almost think the massage is starting now, but it is merely your back receiving a good oiling. Oil will be applied to your arms as well and then it will be time to treat both your legs. Attending one at a time as you get a clear idea of what to expect from the massage.

Finally the massage itself starts. First one leg will be treated, from heel to buttocks, soft and gentle, deep and thorough, stretching and loosening, all as is needed. Then onto the other leg and the same treatment. Next it is your back's turn. Working from one side, then the other, all of the back is massaged. Eventually I will stand by your head and massage your shoulders. All the sore spots and tensions which have built will be treated and eased, making you feel as a weight has lifted from your shoulders.

A long glide of my hands over your body, starting at the head and exiting by the feet, then I will gently ask you to turn over. Again oil is applied to your body, the arms first, then stomach and chest and finally the legs. Again preparing you for the massage and helping me know where the tensions are hidden.

I will start the second half of the massage by gently massaging your stomach. Soft circular movements which become stronger and stronger. The sides will be stretched as well before I massage the muscles on the chest and stretch the back.

Next comes the neck and head. Stretches to relax the muscles, pressure point stimulation and finally a scalp or face massage depending on your wishes. Often I have experienced people completely relax at this stage and even fall asleep.

Then onward to the arms and hands, one at a time and finally the legs. Sometimes I will turn a person on to the side to stretch the back muscles from another angle, or lift the legs to work in depth on the muscle or stretch them.

During the entire massage I will use my hands, fingers, arms and even elbows and knuckles to give you the best massage possible. The massage is a mix of classical deep massage, soft caressing massage, Shiatsu inspired stretches and pressure points, reflexology as well as some energy work and inspiration from other massage styles.

To complete the massage I will massage the entire body with long soft strokes ending by the feet and finally cover you with a warm towel. I will quietly exit the room while you slowly come back. Once I have washed my hands, I will bring you a glass of refreshing water and ask how you feel. Depending on you, I will stay or leave while you get up and get dressed again.

Once you are out of the room I will offer you more water to drink and tell you that it is important that you drink a lot of water to wash out the toxins which have been released in your body. We will chat if you desire. I often find that people want to be quiet and not talk while they prepare themselves to leave. Upon occasion some have the need to talk about their experience and I will happily make a cup of tea and sit down to listen to you. You are more than welcome to contact me later to talk about the massage if you want.

With a smile upon their face most people leave, ready to face the challenges of the day and week again.

Lomi Lomi

Lomi Lomi is the name for Hawaiian massage which primarily uses palms, forearms, knuckles, and elbows, though knees, feet and even sticks and stones can be used as tools. It is a holistic healing tradition which goes beyond simple massage and is almost as old as civilization on the islands. Each family would have their own version of Lomi Lomi and everybody would give and receive.

This massage form is both relaxing and energizing at the same time. The movements are precise and planned, embracing and rhythmic, brought together in fluid harmony. It is a healing massage inspired by Aloha, the energy of love, but also by the waves of the ocean and the tropical breezes. Lomi Lomi captures the spirit of Hawaii.

The masseuse mostly uses her forearms to perform smooth and profound movements, they are surrounding and ethereal, slow and fast. She creates, smooths, encloses, cuts, but also positions herself over the body and immobilises it, while applying her bodyweight to obtain an intense massage. Linked to that is a precise and intense pressure point stimulation. The combination of all the techniques bring harmony and almost perfect balance that builds consciousness of the body and of the now. One strongly and fully senses the positive energy.

Lomi Lomi is more than just a massage. It is a treatment of the entire being, and will often involve meditation techniques, change of diet, advise, self-help activities, spirituality and other things which lie outside the scope of ordinary massage.

Massage books review

Some useful books for massage and wellness.

	This is my first aromatherapy book, or rather, booklet. Since it's a quick overview of a number of essential oils and their physical and mental properties.
	A very useful book on aromatherapy focusing mostly on the psychological aspects of aromatherapy. It works from Chinese medicine point of view, involving the five elements, chi-energy, temperature and combining them with Western approaches. There's also a brief introduction to a light aromatherapy massage. It describes 40 essential oils in depth and is very useful for choosing the right essential oils for a good massage that has a holistic approach.
	Having a rather scientific approach with lots of analysis of the oils, it can be a dry read. There are a lot of chemical naming, scientific expressions and systematic organisation of the descriptions. A book for those who wants to really get into depth with aromatherapy and treat it as a science.
	A beautiful book with many photos introducing the reader to aromatherapy and the most commonly used oils and their properties. The second half of the book teaches the reader the basics of classical/Swedish massage with plenty of photos to illustrate the techniques. There are also a few chapters upon self-massage. A good overall introductory read for those interested in learning how to massage and wanting to try things out before attending classes.
	An easy accessible book teaching the basic massage gestures body part by body part. It also covers massages for seasons, water and cleansing, some stress management as well as a very brief introduction to essential oils and their uses in massage blends. Another good book for beginners wanting to be introduced to massage and try out some basic techniques.
	A very thorough book on whole body massage, head, feet and body. It teaches the reader about various massage techniques, as well as speaks about the physical and spiritual aspects of the body giving a quick overview over various systems and energy points. It goes into detail on all three massage types (head, body and feet), with very elaborate descriptions and photos. The book also gives self treatment exercises as well as touches upon aromatherapy. This book is recommended to those who wish to learn how to massage and also as a companion to those who already know the basics and would like a brush up and more inspiration on classical massage.
	A well written and in depth introduction to and textbook in reflex zone therapy, also known as reflexology. It covers the various zones of the feet and how to treat them as well as brings a collection of case-stories serving as educative examples. A good tool for those who implement reflexology into their massages.
	A good practical introduction to Shiatsu, going step by step through a basic full body Shiatsu treatment. It introduces the reader to the energy concept, as well as covering diet, simple health problems and their treatment, accupressure points, methods of oriental diagnosis as well as shiatsu self-exercises to balance your energy. A good read to get introduced to Shiatsu and learning some basic methods.
	An in depth guide of Shiatsu written by son of the founder of the Japan Shiatsu College which covers many aspects of Shiatsu. Pressure points, meridians, treatments for a wide range of problems, muscular groups, energies and so on. It is a good teaching book.

Californian Massage

Californian massage is a gentle massage technique, which aims to bring a physical and mental balance of the client through soft long strokes that connect the entire body.

It is based upon Swedish (classical) massage, but instead of working in sections focusing on muscle groups one step at a time, Californian massage works on the entire body at once, not dividing the body into sections. The pressure is usually light and gentle, aiming more towards the mental aspect of the massage than the physical. It is a massage which works to relax and treat the entire body and not work on solving specific localized issues. The massage can work in depth if it is necessary for the emotional release, but generally it is a soft, long, fluid and caressing massage to bring the client into balance with her body.

The technique was developed in California at the Esalan institute in Big Sur in the early 1970's among a group psychotherapists. They found the need for a massage which could support their personal explorations and deep insights. A massage which was nourishing and caring, releasing and protective, tender and unifying.

Margareth Elke was taken by the psychological and spiritual aspects of the Esalan massage and brought in her knowledge of Swedish massage. With others developed a new massage form aimed towards mental and physical relaxation and wellness.

The result is a highly relaxing massage which enables people to get back into touch with themselves, physically and mentally.

Sources and further reading:
http://www.asscdm.com/articles/200511californianmassagee.htm
http://www.massage-californien.com/Massage.pdf
http://www.massagenet.com/editorials/editorial_1.htm
http://www.esalen.org/

Aromatherapy in massage

In many massages massage oils are used. The oil makes the massage more fluid and reduces the friction against the skin so the work on the muscles becomes deeper and better. The massage oil also nourishes and moisten the skin.

Massage oils often use aromatherapy. The essential oils not only serves to help relax sore muscles and aid skin conditions or digestion, but also affect the mood, relaxation and feelings during and after the massage.

A good massage oil will not contain much essential oil. It is not needed, and too strong a solution might irritate the skin and enhance the risk of allergic reactions. 10 drops of essential oil is normally enough for 100 ml carrier oil. Double amount can safely be used, but is rarely necessary to create a nicely scented massage oil.

To further use essential oils during a massage, an infuser can be employed to give the room a fragrance that correspondents with the massage oil used. Scented candles are not recommended since they burn the oils instead of evaporate them.

It is mostly for the mental and psychological aspect that aromatherapy is used in massage. By choosing the right scents for a person a certain mood can be set and the fragrances can aid the relaxation.

When paying attention to the mental effects of scents, a massage oil can be created which not only eases muscular tensions, but also releases psychological pain and stagnation. A massage then becomes a holistic treatment healing both body and mind. By using essential oils in your massages, you create not only a physical treatment, but a holistic massage, working on body, mind and emotions as a whole.

Since the essential oils can affect a person very strongly emotionally and cause irritations and skin issues, it's important to be careful on how they are used and follow the safety guidelines there are for essential oils.

It is a wonderful world to explore and can make a large difference in a massage.

Further reading:
Aromatherapy and Massage: Achieving Health and Well-Being the Natural Way with Simple Massage Techniques and Aromatic Treatments
Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit: A Guide to Restoring Emotional and Mental Balance Through Essential Oils
Aromatherapy: A Guide for Home Use
Essential Oils for Lovers
Aromaterapi - Sumo Lutos

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy isn't a massage form as such, but rather a tool used with various massage techniques. The therapy can also be used with baths, inhaled, as room fragrance, compresses, skin care, and internally. Though massage is probably the most commonly used method to employ aromatherapy and use essential oils.

In essence aromatherapy uses essential oils distilled and extracted from various flowers, plants and barks with the aim of using them to heal the body and mind. Aromatherapy isn't a cure in itself, but rather used as a complimentary medicine with other therapies and methods.

The theory is that small concentrated amounts of the essential oils can work on the body and mind. The essential oils contain the essence of the plant and aromatherapy can be seen as a branch of herbalism. Many of the oils have the same properties and functions as infusions and extracts plants as used in traditional herb medicine.

Some oils have antibacterial and anti fungal properties, as well as antiviral. Others help relax the muscles, ease sores or burns. Some oils increase blood flow, reduces pulse, helps with skin problems or aid with digestion while others are useful for the respiratory system. Just as herb medicine has a wide range of conditions it is useful for, so does aromatherapy and essential oils.

Essential oils are also attributed a wide range mental and psychological benefits such as relaxation, aid in meditation, sleep, energy, aphrodisiac, depression etc. A scent can be very powerful and affect our mood easily. It brings back memories, gives us associations with certain situations or things, makes us feel relaxed, happy, romantic or hungry.

Aromatherapy should be used with caution since some oils can have undesired side effects. Each oil must be studied carefully before it is used to avoid complications. Since essential oils are very concentrated it is essential to keep a close eye on possible allergic reactions as well as consider allergies and skin conditions. Aromatherapy shouldn't generally be used during pregnancies and or on babies and small children, unless by a trained aromatherapist.

There are not many regulations around the world when it come to aromatherapy. In some countries anything can be called aromatherapy as long as it contains essential oils or extracts from plants with scent. In other countries there are stricter rules and not everybody can use the term freely. It is still an alternative medicine and scientific studies are lacking on many of the oils and their effects as well as on their uses.

There are schools that educate aromatherapists, though mostly found in the UK, Canada, some in the US and Australia. And associations of aromatherapists around the world are trying to bring about standards to provide security and standards for practitioners and clients alike.

Further reading:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aromatherapy
http://www.aromatherapy.com/
http://www.aromaweb.com/
http://www.aromatherapycouncil.co.uk/
Aromatherapy and Massage: Achieving Health and Well-Being the Natural Way with Simple Massage Techniques and Aromatic Treatments
Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit: A Guide to Restoring Emotional and Mental Balance Through Essential Oils (Alternative Health)
Aromatherapy: A Guide for Home Use
The Practice of Aromatherapy: A Classic Compendium of Plant Medicines & Their Healing Properties
Essential Oils for Lovers
Aromaterapi - Sumo Lutos

Swedish massage

Swedish Massage, also known as Classical Massage (especially in Scandinavia) or as Massage Therapy (mostly in the US), is the basic massage form that most Western world massage-types are based on.

The massage consists of a series of basic movements which are all used to manipulate the soft tissue (muscles etc.) in order to relieve stresses, increase blood flow, loosen muscles, detoxify tissue and strengthen the muscle and make it more subtle.

There are six basic strokes:

• Effleurage - soft caressing movements towards the heart usually used to start and conclude the massage of a specific area and to connect various body parts during the session.
  
• Petrissage - kneading movements working in depth on the muscles, releasing tensions or knots and increasing blood-flow. This can also include some trigger point manipulation and deep tissue massage.
  
• Friction - rapid movements usually done by the palm to heat the skin and upper muscle layers. It increases the blood-flow to an area and the heat makes the muscles relax.
  
• Tapotement - tapping of muscles in order to increase blood-flow and loosen the muscles. It "wakes" up the body.
  
• Compression - squeezing and twisting the muscles in order to lift, relax and drain the muscles.
• Vibration - used to relax the muscles and loosen tensions.
  

Deep tissue massage is based on Swedish massage, but with special focus on loosening knots and tensions, working deeply into the muscle and releasing chronic pain. One massage will not be enough to deal with chronic tensions and a deep tissue package will not only include several massages, but also physical exercise and relaxation exercises.

Swedish massage can easily be adopted to other massage forms such as Californian Massage or Aromatherapy since the main difference technically is pressure, speed and intensity.

It is useful to keep in mind that in the US it is demanded by law that a client is always covered/draped by a sheet/towel during the massage if naked. In France there are no such laws and it is normal to receive the massage naked without any draping. This always will depend on the comfort level of the client and you as receiver will always have final say.

There is a lot of different definitions on massage types and what they are depending on where in the world you're located, and as such it can be difficult to figure out precisely what a name like Swedish massage covers. Especially since Swedish Massage isn't Swedish but the system attributed to a Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger. His work might be based on a movement system created by Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish gymnastics teacher and fencer. His work might have been based on various Asian massage and treatment methods.

Further reading:
http://spas.about.com/od/swedishmassage/a/Swedish.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massage

Shiatsu

The Japanese word "shiatsu" means "finger pressure", and as such describes precisely what the therapy is about.

Shiatsu applies pressure to the skin with the aim of preventing and curing illness by stimulating the body's own natural powers. Fingers, palms, elbows, knees and feet can be employed, though the majority is performed with fingers and palms. Shiatsu is a holistic therapy, which aims to balance the entire body and spirit.

Shiatsu works on the flow of Chi (life-energy) that circulates through the body through the meridians. It aims towards promoting a steady and unobstructed flow of energy, and rebalancing the flow where it has either become excessive or deficient.

Unlike acupuncture, Shiatsu has the direct contact and touch between patient and therapist, which in itself has a great healing and beneficial effect.

The therapy origins in Japan in the early 20th century, and is a combination of acupuncture and massage. Shiatsu is based on the ancient amma massage and involves western style techniques. There are many similarities to Chinese energy understanding and acupuncture and one can speculate that Shiatsu might be a simplified version of acupuncture and acupressure.

Shiatsu is characterised by the following:

• Diagnosis and therapy is combined. By applying pressure the therapist can detect abnormalities and instantly apply the right treatment.
• There is no use for other tools.
• No side effects, such as later muscular pains.
• No age limits, Shiatsu can be applied to all ages from young children to elderly people.
• Shiatsu is a health barometer, since treatment involved diagnosis.
• It deepens trust and reliance between patient and therapist, it is an exchange of energy.
• It treats the whole body which increases effectiveness.

It can be performed by all ages and strengths since it is a matter of communicating with the patient and applying precise pressure and strokes, as opposed to strong massage and movements. Even children can learn to apply Shiatsu to adults and do so successfully.

Sources:
Shiatsu: A Practical Introduction by Oliver Cowmeeadow
The Complete Book of Shiatsu Therapy by Toru Namikoshi

Reflex zone therapy

Reflex zone therapy works out from the theory that the feet represents the seated human body, with the big toe being the head and the heel being the bottom. Via various pressure points on the feet the functioning of the body can be stimulated and treated.

The body is divided into ten equal vertical zones, which incorporates all the organs of the head and trunk. They might be simplified versions of meridians as known from Eastern philosophies. There are three transverse body zones. One in the upper region of the shoulder girdle. The second at the waistline and the third at the level of the pelvic floor. This grid divides the body into zones and makes navigation easier. The feet reflects the zones of the body, five vertical lines on each foot and three transverse lines.

By massaging and stimulating the pressure points on the feet the organs and muscle-groups corresponding will be stimulated and their function be strengthened. Various problems and issues can be treated and the body and organs be healed.

Reflexology also has a good preventive effect and works well to strengthen the body and catch issues before they become a problem. Often the sore points can indicate where a problem is about to start before the corresponding organ or muscle group shows any indication of it.

Areas that are trouble-areas are usually sore and feels like a small ball. It can feel like a sharp pin-prick when massaged upon or as a sore area. Other irregularities can indicate possible issues in the corresponding zones.

Massaging the feet is a nice way to give yourself a nice treatment while boosting your system and gaining health benefits. Nothing can replace the treatment of a professional certified reflex zone therapist.

Reflexology can also be used on children and elderly people and is often a preferred form of treatment as it is very comfortable and easy assessable.

A chart over reflex zone points is useful for identifying potential issues, and is easily found with a google picture search.

source: Reflex Zone Therapy of the Feet: A Textbook for Therapists by Hanne Marquardt

More about Massage Créatif

A Massage Créatif employs many different massage methods, but is based on classical massage (also called Swedish massage), Californian massage and Shiatsu.

By merging the various massage forms and expanding upon the knowledge gained by each school, it has become possible to create an encompassing massage which takes the best elements from these massage forms.

Where a typical physiological massage is taken in steps with interruptions, the Massage Créatif is one long session tying the various body parts together and creating a flow which allows the client to completely let go and receive. Where a typical Californian massage is one long smooth massage, the Massage Créatif manages to work in depth upon muscles and include energy work and pressure points in such a way that it becomes part of the natural flow. Where Shiatsu is very methodical and works on pressure points and stretches, Massage Créatif manages to employ these effective methods while still giving the client a the benefits of a complete body massage.

The Massage Créatif has a clear inspiration from these three schools, and is capable of incorporating other massage forms such as lomi lomi, lymph drainage and reflexology techniques. The heart of Massage Créatif is that the masseuse employs the methods and techniques adapted to a given situation, based on her knowledge, experience and intuition.

More information: http://www.massage-creatif.com

What is Massage Créatif

A Massage Créatif aims toward treating the person as a whole. Working on the muscles in depth where it is particularly needed, soothing and caressing others, while relaxing the entire body and helping the mind to let go of daily worries and concerns.

Through knowledge and intuition; compassion, fingers, hands and arms are employed to treat the muscles while at the same time working with the energies that flow through the body. By combining various massage methods and techniques the body is made to relax deeply while the mind floats away and the client forget worries and concerns while the massage lasts.

The massage becomes a complete treatment of body, mind and soul, filled with pleasure and well-being, leaving the client renewed upon completion.

During a massage it is not only physical tensions that are released and worked on, but also mental and spiritual tensions since a massage of such intense and intimate nature works on the entire person. The massage becomes a journey without pause through bodywork, energy work, meditation, relaxation and trust.

Music, candles, scented oils and a warm comfortable environment all serve to give the client the best possible experience.